Over the last year or so, there's been an increasing trend in garage fires throughout Ontario. These fires, which spread farther and cause more damage than those that start in other parts of the home, are often the result of storing flammable or even explosive materials in your garage. They usually go undetected longer because many people spend little time in their garages, and they generally don't install detectors in there. However, it's important to remember that most garage fires are preventable, and education is the first step to prevention. Here's what you can do to reduce your risk of fire and protect your family and property.

Causes of garage fires

• Electrical malfunction is the leading cause of garage fires. Generally, a flame starts when there’s a short in the wires, the wires are damaged, or an electrical outlet is overloaded.
• Lithium-ion batteries pack a lot of energy into a small space. They can quickly overheat, catch fire, or explode when not used properly.
• Oil-based paints, stains, and varnishes are commonly used for home improvement projects. It’s typical to use rags to clean up spills or brushes. But did you know these seemingly harmless, oily, wet rags can ignite on their own?

Tips to keep your garage safe
While nothing is 100% fireproof, there are steps you can take to reduce your odds of a garage fire significantly:

Electrical malfunctions:

• Have a certified, licensed electrician inspect the wiring in your house and garage.
• Always plug appliances, tools, and rechargeable devices directly into an outlet and unplug them when not in use.
• Always plug one appliance or device into an outlet and avoid using extension cords, especially if they're old or frayed.

Lithium-ion batteries:

• Take note of devices that use a lithium battery charger.
• Only use the battery and charger that came with the device.
• Always purchase and use devices that have been tested and meet certification requirements. Don't purchase cheaper or knock-off products, as they may not meet North American safety standards.
• Always read and meticulously follow the manufacturer's instructions for your devices.
• Never leave a charging device unattended, especially overnight or by an exit.
• Store batteries at room temperature and out of direct sunlight.
• Stop using a battery immediately if you notice any overheating, odour, change in colour or shape, leaking, or odd noises.
• Different municipalities may have varying requirements for disposing of lithium-ion batteries. To prevent environmental hazards, visit your local waste management website for more information about proper battery disposal.

Flammable materials:

• Hang oily wet rags outside and away from any structures to dry. Be sure to keep them spaced out, not piled up.
• Store dry rags in a metal container filled with water and detergent, and put a tight-fitting lid on top.
• Always store flammable substances like gas, oil, propane, paint, and varnishes in a separate structure that isn't connected to the rest of your house, like your shed. If that isn't possible, store them in small quantities.
• Keep liquids in their original container with their lids on tight.

Other safety tips:

• Organize and clean your garage regularly to remove fuel for a fire.
• Consider installing a heat alarm rather than a smoke alarm. The heat alarm will sound if the temperature gets too hot.
• Use welding, grinding, and cutting tools that can create sparks outside and safely away from your house.
• Don’t use cooking devices inside your garage.
• If you smoke, smoke outside and butt out in an ashtray.

Don’t let your garage be a fire hazard. You can prevent a fire from starting by taking the proper steps to ensure it’s as fireproof as possible. Try to make some time this summer break to address problem areas. Since garage fires are among the most destructive, your proactive approach can significantly reduce your risk.

If you're a current OTIP policyholder, contact us at 1-833-615-9329 to review your existing home insurance policy and discuss enhancing your protection with additional optional coverage. If you’re not insured with OTIP and are shopping for home insurance, call us at 1-833-494-0085 to get a quote and receive a $20 gift card of your choice!